Gay

Definition

Gay originally meant lighthearted or cheerful. In modern usage, it primarily refers to a person who is sexually attracted to people of the same sex and often pertains to the LGBTQ+ community.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪ/
• Respelling: GAY (with "GAY" as in "day")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪ/
• Respelling: GAY (with "GAY" as in "day")

In both dialects, "gay" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "GAY."

Etymology

The word "gay" comes from the Old French word "gai," which meant joyful or merry. By the 12th century, it was adopted into Middle English. Historically, it signified brightness or liveliness, especially in reference to music or color. In the 20th century, the term began to be used in the context of sexuality, denoting someone attracted to the same sex.

Derivatives

• Gayness (noun)
• Gaily (adverb)
• Gaydar (noun, slang for the ability to identify gay people)
• Gay-related (adjective)
• Gaybourhood (noun, informal for a gay-friendly neighborhood)

Synonyms

• Homosexual
• Lesbian (for women)
• Queer

Antonyms

• Straight
• Heterosexual
• Non

Usage

The term "gay" is predominantly used in contemporary language to refer to individuals who are romantically or sexually attracted to people of the same sex. It is widely accepted in many parts of the world as a neutral or positive term. In addition to describing people, it is also used to denote things associated with the gay community, such as culture, events, and rights. The term has evolved from its earlier meaning of happy or carefree and is now a central term in discussions about sexual orientation and identity.

Related Terms

• LGBTQ+
• Bisexual
• Transgender
• Queer
• Non-binary

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Sexually Attracted to the Same Sex: Describing a person, particularly a man, who is attracted to others of the same sex.
  • Example: He came out as gay during his college years.

• Related to Homosexuality: Pertaining to or characteristic of gay people, culture, or rights.
  • Example: The city has a vibrant gay community with numerous events and festivals.

• Happy or Carefree: An old-fashioned use of the word, meaning joyful or cheerful.
  • Example: The children were in a gay mood, laughing and playing in the park.

Noun

• A Homosexual Person: A person, particularly a man, who is attracted to members of the same sex.
  • Example: Many gays and lesbians have fought for equal rights and recognition.